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Strange Anxiety Symptom

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Posted 11/7/2014 5:30 AM (GMT 0)
Hello everyone, I used to belong to this forum but cant remeber my password or username anywho, Ive had anxiety/ocd for 7 years now am currently prescribed klonopin twice a day, but I take as needed, and see a therapist... For awhile (well before meds) Ive been experiencing this strange symptom I feel like im not really 'here' the world around me seems 'odd' people I know seem unfamiliar, even though I know where I am and whats going on I have these weird feelings and perceptions. It also comes with some type of vertigo spinning, world is tilting sensation. Even though these moments are scary they do pass, but I was wondering what exactly it is thats happening, and if anyone has experienced similar stuff? Thanks for reading and any help in advance.
Posted 11/7/2014 10:06 AM (GMT 0)
Sounds to me like "depersonalization", a common symptom of anxiety. I used to have this ALOT and it scared me to death until my therapist explained it to me. Well it still scared me but at least I knew what it was and didn't think I was just crazy. That symptom, plus panic attacks, are the two things I hate the most about anxiety but I hope that just knowing what it is will help you deal with it. There are many resources available to you from this forum so I hope you will use some of them to help you with this issue. And I hope you will visit this site more often now that you are experiencing this - I find it to be a wonderful source of help and comfort. Good luck to you....we are here for you whenever you need to vent about anything...we know what you are going through and are here for support and assistance whenever you need it.
Posted 11/7/2014 12:54 PM (GMT 0)
Hi

First of welcome back to the forum it's good to have you back. I agree with andwes about it being depersonalisation which is a common symptom of high anxiety I get it a lot and it usually leads to me feeling quite paranoid. I am pleased to read that you are seeing a therapist they should be able to talk things through with you and help you to manage your anxiety better.

Hibee
Posted 11/7/2014 6:43 PM (GMT 0)
Hello and welcome back!
Sorry you are facing this current challenge. You described that sensation perfectly...and yes, it is a fairly common symptom of anxiety.
Here is a link that can explain more:.
http://psychcentral.com/disorders/depersonalization-derealization-disorder-symptoms/

...and here is the link for our Resources which has great self-help ideas such as breathing, meditation, ect...that can help relieve this issue:

https://www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206


Keep up the good work in your recovery...and post with us anytime for support and understanding.;)
Scaredy Cat
Posted 11/7/2014 9:43 PM (GMT 0)
Hey thanks for the replies/support. What a relief to hear its JUST anxiety, this symptom in particular has been a tough one. Thanks for the article, just reading it is unsettling.. Many thanks though, I forgot how nice it is to share and not feel alone in this..glad to be back:)
Posted 11/8/2014 5:51 AM (GMT 0)
Hi there.

I too have had bouts of it this year. I think mine was more derealization. We have a new member Manicmarj who's been talking about it too recently and many other posts about it.

You are definitely not alone! You described it perfectly. My bouts would last for a day or 2. I describe it as "feeling like a stranger in your own familiar world."

I've been told it's occurs when we are mentally exhausted from anxiety/stress. I think more people have had it but dnot know how to explain or describe it bc it's just so darn weird! At least a panic attack is familiar (albeit rotten), but the DP/DR is just gross. It hovers over you like a dark cloud.

Mine has gotten better with time & getting my anxiety & depression under control with antidepressants and therapy.

You are DEFINITELY not alone with this one. Nor are you crazy or going to go crazy tongue

Hang in there & sending you much peace!
Lisa
Posted 11/10/2014 10:55 PM (GMT 0)
It took me a long time to understand it, because of course I thought I was losing it, and wanted to push it away.... still learning to accept it. Mine is the worst when I have to drive depending on my stress level/ anxiety it can be a moment or 10 minutes. I agree, panic can pale in comparison to this awful feeling. The high stress would explain the cause since I've been under a lot lately. I'm prescribed an ssri but have been hesitant to take it/ The whole "could get worse before it gets better" is a little off putting, but I know its silly and need to try every resource available. I've heard nothing but great things from those I know who take them and am glad to hear they've been such a great help for you as well.. Thanks for offering advice, it helps a lot :)
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